Towards Sustainable Mechanized Sand Dredging: Assessing and Mitigating Socio-Ecological Footprints in Rural Nigeria

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@article{1707709,
      author = {Chinyere Iheoma Erondu, Ebere Samuel Erondu},
      title = {Towards Sustainable Mechanized Sand Dredging: Assessing and Mitigating Socio-Ecological Footprints in Rural Nigeria},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {8},
      number = {10},
      pages = {67-83},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1707709.pdf},
      abstract = {Sand dredging plays a crucial role in economic development, particularly in Nigeria, where it supports the development of infrastructure and urban expansion. However, the practice has major socio-ecological effects, particularly in rural areas where unregulated dredging has caused habitat loss, environmental damage, and socioeconomic disturbances. Focusing on the deterioration of water quality, erosion, damage of wetlands, and consequences on local livelihoods, this paper critically investigates the impact of mechanized sand dredging in rural Nigeria. It highlights poor regulatory systems, governance flaws, and absent sustainable dredging methods. Inspired by global best practices, the study supports environmentally friendly dredging methods that balance financial gains and preservation of the surroundings. It proposes policy reforms, eco-friendly technological innovations, and community-driven governance as essential strategies for mitigating socio-ecological footprints. In Nigeria, switching to sustainable sand dredging calls for a multi-stakeholder approach combining social equality, environmental responsibility, and economic viability.},
      keywords = {Dredging, Sustainable, Mechanized, Mitigating, Ecological, Footprints, Rural.},
      month = {April},
  }